N is for nightlife...
The student nightlife in Derby is varied and appealing to everyone. Blue Note is famous for entertaining the indie massive, whereas Spank is more suited to the cheese lovers. The Friary provides a more laid back atmosphere with cheap drinks, reasonably priced food and comfy sofas; perfect for a Sunday afternoon drink and a game of pool. O is for overdraft...
Thankfully it goes up each year you're at uni but remember, you still have to pay it back so try not to get too deep into debt if you don't have to. Students are quick to forget that when you finish university the free money they're so used to stops and reality beckons! P is for parking...
Parking at the university is a nightmare so if possible, use public transport. The uni operates a comprehensive bus network at discounted prices for students. There is parking on the Broadway but this fills up very quickly so you may end up driving in circles for hours before you even get a glimpse of an empty space. Parking attendants are also very hot in this area and have a habit of giving out tickets for the most minor of offenses. Q is for queuing...
 | | queuing! |
Queuing for registration at the beginning of term, queuing for your student ID card, queuing for the canteen, queuing to hand in an assignment, queuing to get a book out in the Learning Centre, queuing to get into Spank on a Wednesday night; queuing for the toilet, a drink and your coat! The list is endless so be prepared to spend alot of time staring at the back of someone's head! R is for registration...
Every year, students have to register for the forthcoming year at university. The process is long and boring but if you don't do it you may lose your place on your course. It's best to get it out of the way as soon as possible as this gives you more time to get to know Derby and all the new and exciting people who live there! S is for sleep...
Sleep patterns often end up topsy-turvy when you start university and daytime TV becomes ever so slightly more appealing. Phillip and Fern take on a whole new meaning and late night movie rentals go through the roof. If sleeping problems plague you whilst studying, ask a qualified doctor for advise. You can register with the University GP surgery, Park Medical Practice which is situated in Student Services, Kirtley Building, on the Kedleston Road site. The practice offers confidential advise and is available to all students living in Derby. T is for takeaway...
It's pretty much guaranteed you will have at least one takeaway before you finish university. The usual standard is either a kebab, a portion of greasy chips or a burger, ranging from beef chicken or veggie. If you're feeling particularly flush you might treat yourself to a pizza but this won't happen every night! The majority of takeaways are located on or around Friargate. Remember to take your student card with you because some offer a student discount. T is also for tutors...
Keeping on the right side of your tutors can be a very worthwhile activity. Despite what you may think they are there to help you so keeping in their good books is definitely a good idea. Boxes of chocolates and an annual Christmas card are a must! U is for UDSU...
UDSU stands for the University of Derby Student Union and it is there to help and represent you! UDSU brings you a whole range of student entertainment, activities, services and advice. Your involvement can range from having a drinking in the Union Arms to running for student council. There's a heap of useful information on the UDSU website so make sure you check it out! V is for visitors...
When you first start uni it's always nice when your 'homies' come to visit. Show them the sights, give them a tour and introduce them to a new way of life! You can guarantee they will be chomping at the bit to come again! W is for work placement...
It may seem like hard work but if your course allows it, make sure you get some work experience. It's hard enough getting work when you finish uni so increase your chances by getting some relevant on-the-job experience. It will make like easier for you in the long run and boost your chances of landing your dream job in the big smoke. X is for X marks the spot...
Student elections are the highlight of the UDSU year and always create a great buzz around campus. Any full-time student can run for elections, you just need strong ideas and a loud voice! Hustings usually take place in April, leaving you plenty of time to prepare your winning manifesto! Y is for Y fronts...
Dirty Y fronts, tee-shirts found screwed up in a ball, trousers from the party last term, skimpy pants, super short skirts, smelly socks, and footy shorts... they all need washing so make sure you get to grips with how the laundry room operates in your hall. There are also several laundrettes throughout the city so do some research and pick which ever suites you. Alternatively, take your washing home each week and use it as an excuse to catch up with the parents! Z is for zoology...
Zoology is just one of the many courses on offer at the University so if you're reading this and considering the idea of joining up for three or four years, check out the course list on the university website. You will be surprised at how many different courses the university can offer. | 
